Best Birthday Songs of the 1970s
Tired of the same old birthday songs list that features “Birthday” by Katy Perry and “In Da Club” by 50 Cent? Why not switch things up with a 1970s-themed playlist this year?
From ballads expressing heartfelt wishes to unforgettable singalongs and whimsical tales, there’s a 1970s birthday song for pretty much every taste out there.
In this article, we’ll check out seven of those tracks to help you find the perfect song for your (or special one’s) upcoming special day.
1. Conway Twitty – “Happy Birthday Darlin'” (1979)
In this heartwarming No.1 country hit, Conway Twitty gives his significant other quite a unique birthday present—taking away her worries and doubts about their relationship.
Rather than settle for material gifts, he promises to give her the priceless offerings of faith, romance, and quality time together. Who wouldn’t want that?
With its tender lyrics and Twitty’s emotive delivery, “Happy Birthday Darlin'” is a wonderful song for expressing unwavering love and commitment.
But you’ll probably want to buy an actual gift, too. Maybe a cake? You know, just to be polite and tangibly show your appreciation. This way, you’ll fit into the whole birthday ritual while making it slightly more meaningful with Twitty’s song.
2. Don McLean – “Birthday Song” (1972)
Don McLean’s “Birthday Song” is a touching gem from his acclaimed “American Pie” album. The song features gentle guitar strums as McLean pours his heart out to someone special on their birthday.
Who is that someone? Some folks believe it’s his daughter.
Maybe it’s because he ends the song by telling the birthday person that he has learned from them even though they “can’t even sing.” This might imply that McLean is talking to a baby who can’t talk (or sing) yet but still brings so much wisdom to his parents.
While we’re not sure that’s true, we think the sweet, relatable lyrics about cherishing someone so deeply despite being at a loss for words make “Birthday Song” ideal for dads looking to put together a birthday playlist.
But nothing is stopping you from playing it as a celebratory track for a friend or a partner. The lyrics will still feel just as magical and will set the atmosphere for creating fond memories.
It’s a bit on the calm side, though. So, don’t expect it to deliver the same amount of energy and rush you’d get from singing the traditional “Happy Birthday to You” song.
If you’re using this one for a child’s birthday, make sure to sprinkle some ’70s children’s songs into your playlist to keep things fun and upbeat.
3. Uriah Heep – “The Magician’s Birthday” (1972)
For an epically over-the-top birthday celebration, look no further than the 10-minute prog rock marvel that is “The Magician’s Birthday.”
This ambitious title track from the band’s fifth studio album is quintessential 70s rock excess—shredding guitar solos, thunderous drumming, and a fantastical tale of magic duels and enchanted forests to boot!
Sure, the complex musicianship and quirky lyrics make it an acquired taste. However, for rock fans, this track can deliver an adrenaline-fueled birthday experience with a bit of whimsy.
4. Elton John – “The Greatest Discovery” (1970)
With gentle piano melodies and Elton’s warm vocals, the song captures the awe and wonder of welcoming a sibling into your life.
The lyrics paint vivid scenes of the tiny details surrounding the baby, building up to the profound final line about the parents introducing their son to his baby brother—”the greatest discovery” itself.
This makes the song an incredibly thoughtful addition to a 1st birthday party playlist. Of course, if you’ve got a younger brother, you can turn it into a birthday tradition and play it every year on his special day, whether it’s his 10th or 21st birthday!
5. Peter Hammill – “Birthday Special” (1975)
If you’re looking for a whimsical birthday party song, Peter Hammill’s “Birthday Special” would be the way to go.
In the song, Hammill goes on to mention “parrots in the pantry” and “lizards in the loo.” There’s a bit of “tooting” as well. So, it’s obvious he’s embracing a playfully chaotic energy.
In fact, he goes as far as letting the birthday girl know he’s planned a “special” for her that not even “Hansel and Gretel” got to experience. Is this a promise of a good time or a playful threat? That’s up to you to decide.
While admittedly head-scratching at times, the song’s sense of adventure and unrestrained joy is great for celebrating another year around the sun. It’s a fun, off-the-wall pick!
6. The Guess Who – “Share the Land” (1970)
Though not explicitly a birthday tune, this rock anthem and Billboard 200 chart hit can send a powerful message on someone’s big day.
With its hopeful lyrics about unity, “Share the Land” can be a wonderful birthday tune to remind your loved one that they have the sort of friends that will be there to “shake their hand” and stick by their side one year after the other.
7. ABBA – “Dancing Queen” (1976)
This one isn’t birthday-specific, either. But it’s almost impossible to resist ABBA’s iconic “Dancing Queen” any given day.
From weddings to milestone birthdays, this upbeat disco anthem is a quintessential party song. And no, it’s not just for the special 17. Feel free to blast this song regardless of how old the lucky birthday person is!
Maybe you’ll start the celebration with something more meaningful on the birthday morning, then shift to “Dancing Queen” to transition into an electrifying, celebratory atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
No matter your age, the 1970s gifted has got you covered with an incredible array of birthday songs.
From Conway Twitty’s tender song to ABBA’s dance floor hit, you’ll surely find the perfect way to say “Happy Birthday” to your loved one!